Throwback Thursday!

Hey Gang,

It's Wednesday, which means we are celebrating Throwback Thursday!

Who See, Sushi?

Hey Gang,

This week's podcast is all about a new food that I discovered!

Night-Time Errands

Hey Gang,

My co-host is such an over achiever that she does her chores at night!

Move Over Pumpkin Spice Girls

Hey Gang,

It's the time of year that some people really look forward to... pumpkin spice mania has begun!.  The craze is starting now and will continue until eggnog season takes over. There is nothing like drinking a warm cinnamon and nutmeg beverage in the August heat!

As an unemployed coffee enthusiast, I often feel left out of Pumpkin-Spice-Palooza. (Which by the way, is the mildest of all the paloozas.)  Most the flavored lattes are sold at expensive coffee chains and are served by real-life burritos who write your name on a cup.  (Why they never started that tradition at Taco-Bell is a mystery to me.)

I have tried making my own pumpkin spice coffee, but the stem hits me in the nose when I take a sip. It got me to thinking though, why are pumpkins the most celebrated of the gourds?  I say we give another member of the Cucurbitcea family some time in the spotlight.  Why not combine the popularity of morning refreshments with the nutrients of squash?

Just think of all the fun combinations that Starbucks can have- A zucchini macchiato could be called a Macchaini or a yellow squash coffee could be deemed a Sunshine Squafee. How about a delicious acorn latte, or a Acorlatte as it would be called? Who needs hazelnut as a sweetener anymore when you can put butternut squash creamer in your coffee?

As in life, the possibilities are endless.  Enjoy your early celebration of fall in the relentless humidity and as always...Stay Awake Kids!

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer

The Stairway to Success

Hey Gang,

My latest podcast follows me on a nifty job interview!

Goals With No Net

Hey Gang,

I don't know if you know, but my journey to stalk and meet Tony Robbins has been complete! For those of you who didn't know, the finale of my big journey is documented in the following video: https://youtu.be/5LjErxqIAGk

Now that I am back home, safe and sound in my Gremlin that I live in at the Walmart parking lot, I wanted to take some time to reflect on this crazy adventure!  Some may think, 'Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer, you traveled for miles and sacrificed so much just to get to the same stadium that Tony was in, but you only met his staff that he hired to keep people like you away from him.  What did you really gain?'

Great question!  I gained a lot.  I gained more debt, several travel blisters on various body parts and a few marks on my rap sheet for loitering in a public place. (Once I got to the venue Tony was at, I didn't leave...for weeks. I was hoping he would forget his watch or briefcase and would have to come back for it. He never did.)

The most important thing that I gained, though, was a completed goal.  I had told myself that I would someday be near the greatest motivational speaker of all times and I did it.  Should I have set my goal higher? Maybe.  Should I have planned on at least attending the seminar that I went to? Possibly.  Did I take a trip that cost me the rest of my money and dignity? Perhaps.  The bigger question really is: Did I promise myself that I would achieve a promise that I made to myself? YES I did!

I also learned something very important about goal setting, every goal doesn't have to be perfect. Goals are like basketball posts, some are high and shiny and have a painted-on square while others are shabby, crooked and have lost their netting...but each is still used to play a game. A game I have never understood. (I just confused myself with that sports analogy.)

My point is, keep trying!  Keep dreaming! Find your own hero to stalk and scour the country for.  In the end, it is something you can blog about!

Stay Awake Kids.

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer

The Journey's End

Hey Gang,

It's all over. My quest to meet Tony is complete. It couldn't have turned out better. (Unless of course, I actually met him, but I got awfully close.)  Enjoy!

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer Rides the Rails!

Hey Gang,

My journey continues!  Join me as I (try to) take a train to see my Tony.  I will get there!

The Kitty Kitty Challenge

Hey Gang,

If you have been following my podcast (#ItsNotAPodcast) then you know that I am the journey of a lifetime to meet my one true Guru, Tony Robbins.  I did, though, want to take a little break and share something that I keep seeing during my travels.

There is a new video craze going around called the KiKi Challenge.  This trend has people jumping out of moving cars to dance to a Drake song and then jumping back in.  What could possibly go wrong?  Apparently a lot. Many people are injuring themselves by not successfully gauging the speed of the vehicle. (Quick ProTip, the best speed to exit a vehicle is when the car is parked and going zero miles per hour.)

I understand the need to follow trends, though.  I once had a mullet, high-waist jeans and leg warmers. (Awe... 2016 was a good year.)  I propose a newer, safer challenge, called the Kitty Kitty challenge.  It is where you find a cat, dance with it to the tune of "Who Let The Dogs Out" and then safely release the feline.  Make sure no harm is done to the kitty. (Other than the mildly annoying the cat, who was probably already annoyed anyway.)  You can post your videos in the comments section.

I am going back on my journey to meet Tony!  Keep watching and stay awake, Kids!

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer

Where in the World is Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer?

Hey Gang,

I guess I am missing! I am very worried about me...

Snacks On a Plane

Hey Gang,

For those of you following my podcast, you know I am on a non-stop adventure to finally meet my Tony! (For those of you not following my podcast, follow my podcast.) In my pursuit of this opportunity I have had to travel in some creative ways.  I recently rode on a plane. ( I also visited the TSA people in their office for a long time.)

A lot of things have changed  since my last airplane trip in the late 90's.  Now instead of dressing for the plane ride, people wear sweat pants and open-toed flip flops...How comfy!  Eating on a plane has also changed.  I remember getting a light meal and a can of soda while on board. This time, I was just handed a small glass of soda, no can and a bag of crackers.  As disappointed as I was, I realized that the airlines are now letting passengers bring in their own refreshments on the plane.

A lot of people on my flight seemed to go for the fast food that they over paid for in the terminal.  The smell of greasy food in a giant tube stuffed with people really make the senses come alive!  A few people brought in homemade food.  Fortunately, the smell was just as pungent as the recently purchased food.  The real aroma, however, came 45 minutes after take-off when those passengers got gassy from the high altitude. Economy flying is fun!

I don't want to give any spoiler alerts about the rest of my pursuit of the great Anthony Robbins, but follow my podcast and see my other means of transportation.

Hope everyone is having a great summer. Stay awake, kids!

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer

Desperately Seeking Tony Part 3

Hey Gang,

The saga continues...I am getting closer!

Desperately Seeking Tony Part 2

Hey Gang,

I am hot on my pursuit to meet Tony!

Desperately Seeking Tony Part 1

Hey Kids.

I have found out that my Tony is going to be a short half-of-a-country away from me.  I can't let this opportunity pass me by!  Join me on my trek to meet my hero and mentor!

Red, White and Boom!

Hey Gang,

Today most Americans will be celebrating with fireworks and fun.  This year, like most years, I will be watching the festivities from my Gremlin parked in the Walmart parking lot.  It is a long standing tradition that I began when I first started not getting invited to 4th of July parties.

The last party I attended was a few years ago.  I had started working at a job that I eventually got fired from.  I had overheard one of my coworkers talking about having a party.  I asked if the party was by invitation only. My coworker said it was and didn't give me an invitation.  Luckily I was able to look at everyone else's invite and memorized the address of the shindig.  To EVERYONE's surprise I ended up attending the party and I was dressed like Uncle Sam! (Not the mascot for the US, but my Uncle Sam. He was 80 and covered in boils. It was a head-turner for sure!)

It was at this party that I realized two things: alcohol and fireworks don't mix and if the invitation says BYOB, then you shouldn't drink the beverages in other people's coolers. I wont bore you with the details, but after I drank half of a Zima that I found in a container marked, "For Judy Only," I got a little crazy with the poppers and firecracker worms.  To this day, I cant see the slow ooze of  a Black Snake without having to lay under a doggy anxiety blanket.

I hope today's holiday is great for all of you.  If you go out to barbecue or if you stay in remember to be safe and Stay Awake, Kids!

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer

The Birthday Podcast!

Hey Gang.

Our podcast this week acknowledges a very special birthday!

Ringing In Saturn Tonight!

Hey Gang,

Tonight is going to be very exciting!  We (the people of Earth) will be able to see Saturn. (The planet, not the plastic car.)  From what I understand, the Earth revolves AROUND the sun. (Who knew?)  Well, today the earth will be wedgied between Saturn and the sun.

I think we could all learn an important lesson from tonight's celestial event.  It's all about dealing with people or issues that you normally can ignore.  It is no secret that Earth and Saturn have had an icy relationship for awhile.  They don't often run in the same circles, so most of the time direct contact can be avoided.  Not tonight, though. Both planets will be passing each other, exchanging chilly glances and smiling for all those taking pictures to post on social media.  Remember this the next time you run into your "Saturn" or the next time your trip around the sun leads to awkward encounters. If the giant planets can get along, so can you and your enemies.

For those of you who have a telescope, you can gaze into the sky and see the wonderment of the universe.  For those of us who don't have a telescope it would be great if we got invited to the telescope owners' houses.  I would even bring some kind of space-themed snack, like moon-pies or Cheerios. (They look like little Saturn rings.)  You can leave your invitations in the comments of this blog. I will be waiting by my computer all day!

Have fun tonight, be safe and Stay Awake, kids!

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer

Cathy Gainer's WOD!

Hey Gang,

I started a fun new segment for our podcast...the Word of the Day!

Gaining Vacation Time

Hey Gang,

I have a big vacation that I am planning.  I can't let you in on all of the details, but let's just say it involves going to a big city in pursuit of the most handsome lifestyle guru out there. (Hint, it's not Oprah.) I have a lot of preparing to do for my big trip, so I thought I would share my travel tips with my readers!

Packing Your Suitcase

• It is important to remember to take as much as you possibly can with you.  The rule of thumb... bring 2 1/2 outfits for every day that you are away.  You never know when you will need to change from your spring yellow blazer into your winter yellow blazer. Pack all your blazers! Even if your going to the beach...It is ALWAYS blazer season.

•  Another travel misconception out there is to roll up your clothes before putting them in your suitcase.  I think that technique couldn't be wronger.  Yes, you may save space by packing that way, but is that how you want your clothes to experience travel? Remember this vacation is for  everyone.  Throw your clothes in your bag the way you would want to be thrown in a bag...with gusto and unabashed joy!  Let your garments free from the confounds of luggage conformity.

• A lot of people will pack ahead of time.  I don't.  Too much preparing will only add to the anxiety of travel.  Gather your travel belongings the morning of your departure, it adds to the excitement of the journey!

Eating On The Go

• Unlike clothing, taking extra food with you isn't necessary.  Most places that you are going to have food.  The airport is full of over-priced food, as well as hotels.  Many hotels have food right in your room.  They charged you up to 10 times the  regular amount, but hey...what are vacations for?

• Don't stray for your usual palette.  In the last decade or so, a term called "foodees" has been used a lot.  It describes people who like to try new and different types of food. Not on my vacation!  I have eaten a 7-11 granola bar and a red Gator-Aid every morning for the last 20 years. That type of routine isn't going to be stopped just because I am on vacation.

Taking Pictures

•  We live in a society of social media. We take pictures of ourselves and our food constantly.  Why not go on vacation from picture taking too?  If you are someplace special, why do a mundane task of capturing the moment...that is for "everyday" life, not your "getaway" time.

I hope these travel tips help. If you are taking a sabbatical this summer, remember to stay safe and stay awake, kids!

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer

Celebrate Summer Solstice!

Hey Gang,

This week's podcast is all about the summer solstice!

Trash Talking Sunday!

Hey Gang,

This Sunday will be a big celebration.  Families all across the country will gather to honor the men in their lives.  It is of course, Global Garbage Man Day!

I have so many great memories of my childhood garbage men. I would look forward to seeing them every week.  Sometimes I would wait for them at the end of the driveway, sometimes I would wait for them by the garbage cans and sometimes I would wait for them inside the garbage cans.  It got to be such a fun game to watch the trash collectors scream when I would jump out of the rubble shrieking at the top of my lungs!  The sanitation workers got to the point that they would kick the cans before they would pick them up. Sadly, I had to stop playing that game when the county refused to provide trash service our home. Such treasured memories!

Since I currently reside in the Walmart parking lot, I don't have a neighborhood garbage man anymore. I just have giant dumpsters that gets picked up by larger trucks. I did once try to hide and scare those garbage men, unfortunately the trucks were too automated and the dumpsters were too big that I ended spending the whole week being trapped at the city dump.

This year will be tricky since June 17th falls on a Sunday, most garbage men will be at home celebrating Father's Day with their families. So, if you know the addresses of any garbage men, post it to the internet.  Try to go to their houses and show them how much you appreciate their services, maybe even give them a gift...what more would they want than garbage?  Show them how much you appreciate them by throwing a piece of garbage in their yard. If you REALLY care, chuck a whole bag of garbage into their yard.  Let them feel appreciated!

Enjoy the weekend and stay awake kids!

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer

Cathy Gainer Gets an Interview!

Hey Gang,

Guess who's hiring? The library!!! The whole podcast cast and crew may find employment!

Special 10K!

Hey Gang,

This is an exciting week for me. My blog is about to hit 10,000 views!   There is a commonly held belief that if you practice anything for 10,000 hours you become an expert at it. Michael Jordan was rumored to have practiced rock and roll music in his garage for 10,000 hours while The Beatles shot hoops for that same amount of time.  Look at who they became...legends!

I have posted 79 blogs that take me anywhere from one to two hours to write, which means that I still need more hours to become a world-class blogger. (If I factor in procrastination time, along with dawdling and dilly dallying, I spend about three and a half days in front of a computer to write one blog post.) However, if it takes at least a minute to read one blog post then that makes my collective readers expert blog viewers!  Congrats on such a huge accomplishment!

10,000 is also significant in a few other ways:

• It is my gross lifetime income! (I don't like to brag, but I had been at the $9,500 mark for a couple of years, it was so great to make it over that hump.) 
• I once tried to start a band that consisted of a large number of maniacs, but Natalie Merchant apparently had parallel thinking and came up with her musical act first. 
• I was asked to run a 10k, I thought it meant to run the shape of a K ten times, apparently the K stands for metric miles. It was too much for me, I still ran the K shape, though. (I pulled a muscle after a K and a half.)
• 10,000 is also about 416 days, which is about 59 more weeks which equals 59 more blogs that may lead to 10,000 more views. (If your mind is not blown, then your not paying attention!)

Thanks again, Gang for the reads, the likes and the subscribes! Be sure to watch my weekly videos as well!

Stay Awake Kids,

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer Has Revelation!

Hey Gang,

I discovered a fun new technology! I am just not sure what it called???

You Are What You Tweet

Hey Gang,

May has been a crazy month for me.  I have attended a lot of graduation ceremonies, a few Memorial  Day barbecues and even a Mother's Day banquet.  I wasn't technically invited to any of these celebrations or knew any of the people in attendance, but boy did I have fun! (Until I was asked to leave.)

Now that the Mayziness (the craziness of May) has worn off, I have started paying attention to the news again.  It turns out that a famous person sent out a Tweet using the application Twitter and got into a lot of trouble.  This isn't the first time this has happened. (If you can believe it.)  It seems that well-known people often express their views spontaneously. Sometimes, it makes them endearing to their followers, sometimes it makes them lose their job and sometimes it gets them elected to the highest political office in all the land.  Social media is fun!

It got me to thinking.  What if famous people hired someone to speak on their behalf?  What if a rich person whose source of income is dependent on their likability could hire a professional to publish any statements for them. Maybe they could be called a Publicist?  What a sane world that would be! Can you imagine, well thought out cohesive statements given to the press?  I know it sounds crazy, maybe it something we can shoot for in the 22nd Century.

Here's to a Jellow! (That is a mellow June!)

Stay Awake Kids,

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer
   

Steamboat Cathy Gainer

Hey Gang,

Let's take a look back at our podcast and its origins!

The Sweet Smell of Sussex

Hey Gang,


I guess you have heard by now that there was a huge to-do this past weekend.  Two members of royalty got married.  I am fuzzy on the details, but the couple is now charge of Sussex!  I was not sure what Sussex was, so I used the Google program to investigate and come to find out...Sussex is a county in the regal state of New Jersey.

From my understanding, this newlywed couple is in now charge of all 141,682 people who reside in the county. That's a lot of people! The pair will also oversee all 535.74 square miles of Sussex. That's a lot of land!  The area is home to many generational New Jersey residents.  That's a lot of Aqua Net!

The two royals where given the title of Duke and Duchess of Sussex. How fancy!  It is motivating to see old-timey titles used in modern times. It has inspired me to change my professional status to Lady Gainer, Countess Trainer. I am hoping that this new elegant title will finally help me get an actual training job. (As of right now I am still the Earl of Unemployment!)

I do wish Henry and Megs all the best. (That's what I call them.)  They have a long road ahead of them. (By road, I mean the New Jersey turnpike.)   Marriage isn't easy, but those two crazy kids have a lot of love for another, (Also, they have a lot of my unanswered emails offering them unsolicited marital and governing advise.)

Love (and the smell of New Jersey) is in the air! Stay Awake, Kids!

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer

The Spoken Word Podcast

Hey Gang,

We switched things up for our podcast today and tried spoken word!  It is rhym-a-rric!

ConGraduations!!!

Hey Gang,

It's graduation time for many students across America.  As someone who has never graduated anything...ever, I find this season fascinating!  From what I understand, there are lots of inspirational speakers during the graduation ceremony.  As an aspiring trainer, I think I would be good fit be as an aspiring commencement speaker.

In preparation for any future speeches that I may or may not be asked to make, I have prepared the following words:

Hello Class of The Present Year,

Some of you may be graduating from high school or college...maybe 8th grade or kindergarten.  It is really hard to say, we seem to "graduate" almost any grade these days with elaborate ceremonies and gifts. Yay consumer spending!

All of you before me  have come here today for many different reasons...you attended a program that is now ending.  Ok, maybe that is the same reason.  Many of you, though, wanted this diploma  for many different reasons...you were promised it as a result of completing the program.  Ok, maybe that is also the same reason.  All of you before me are exactly the same and interchangeable.  Be proud!

It wasn't easy finishing the tasks that led you here.  There was a lot of homework, a lot of tests and a lot of studying.  Why did you go to all that much trouble and work? Seriously, I want to know...you missed out on a lot of naps and reality programming.  At least 23 Real Housewives shows were made, aired and cancelled in that time.  Just think about what you missed out on. I hope it was worth it.

Look around you and remember this day.  Remember who was sitting next to you. Remember who came to support you. Remember what it took to get you to where you are today. Remember it all...you may be questioned later by the police as I just stepped on to the podium without being the ACTUAL commencement speaker and I see the cops running towards me now.

In conclusion, because the officers are drawing near, make today the first day of the rest of the remaining afternoon.  

Stay awake kids,

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer

The Best Of Podcast!

Hey Gang,
Give your Mom the gift of Gainer!  If your Mom isn't watching our weekly episodes, introduce her to out "best of" video.  All the fun in one click!

The Writer's Block Blog

Hey Gang,

I have been writing this blog for a year and a half.  If it were a baby, it would be walking by now.  If it were a kitty, it would be fully functional and plotting against its enemies by now. If it were a panther chameleon, it would have gone through puberty, laid eggs, saw its offspring and died of old age by now.  I have had this blog for awhile is what I am trying to say.

It isn't always easy to come up with new and exciting topics week after week.  Some weeks, I am inspired by world events, personal challenges or even interesting observations that come into my mind.  This week I have nothing.

I am sure the news is chock full of fodder, but there are times when I become Cathy Gainer Stick My Head In The Sand Trainer.  There is only so much I can read without becoming overwrought with anxiety and fear for the future, it's at that point I transform into Cathy Gainer Can't Get Out Of The Fetal Position Trainer.  No one really wants her to write a blog.  It usually just consists of tears on a computer screen and the words, "When will it end?" written over and over.

This week has also been full of personal challenges. Not the fun, 'I have gone through the storm and came out on the other side' challenges.  They have been more like the 'When will it end?' challenges that turn me into Cathy Gainer Full Of Regret Trainer.

That leaves me right where I am, on the computer with nothing to write about.  I try to think WWTRANOD? (What Would Tony Robbins and Oprah Do?)  In my mind's eye, I see them pulling up from their funk, sitting at the computer and finally writing a weekly blog.  In reality, I wonder if one of Tony or Oprah's assistants would just write the blog while the gurus sat in a dark Gremlin binge eating cracker sticks and cheese dip in a packet. (Those snacks are delicious. Oprah probably has a fancy cheese like brie in her packet. )

Well gang, I hate to disappoint but this week's blog is going to be preempted by a case of writer's block and a very small block of gooey fake cheese.

Stay Awake Kids,

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer

Thanks Bros!

Hey Gang,

Here is a video tribute to our biggest fan-base...the bros!

My DemBROgraphics!!

Hey Gang,

I recently discovered statistics regarding this blog!  It turns out that men between the ages of 25-35 are reading it the most!  I thought I would take a moment to pander to my biggest demographic....The Bros!

So...have you all seen the latest superhero movie?  It was way rad, especially the part when the villain was seemingly winning the confrontation but was ultimately defeated by the end of movie.  Also, who likes to watch organized games of sports? Tater Tots are delicious. Never having to be a real adult is nifty!

Ok guys, I am back...I had to italicize the above dialogue so you  know that I was in my "bro" character.  I am just me now.  Just for full disclosure (because there are a lot of legalities regarding what you can and can't say on a personal blog) I have never watched a superhero movie.  As a child I tried a read comic book once, but was bored and opted for a Tony Robbins pamphlet that I fatefully found at a mall parking lot.  I am sure they are lovely movies.  Who doesn't get entertained by 90 minutes of watching people getting all punchy and kicky on the big screen?

Also, I don't really watch the sporting events either.  When I was in high school, as Cathy Gainer Adolescent Trainer, I would attend some of the athletic competitions.  It is fun.  Our school had colored uniforms that the athletes wore. The other teams competing also donned matching clothes.  I would cheer vehemently for my school, until the coaches would tell me to leave the gymnasium.

I really do eat tater tots, though. Who doesn't?  I feel that is kind of a universal appeal, not just dudes like finger sized crispy potatoes

Well folks and bros, keep reading every week. I hope you are watching my podcasts as well.  Tune in this Saturday for a video that thanks to the blog-reading bros!

Stay Awake Kids
Peace Out, Broseph
(That is Bro-Talk for Stay Awake Kids!)

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer

Sales Training...The Video!

Hey Gang,

Once again, our podcast is in tandem with my blog!  If you loved my Sales Training tips...be sure to watch the video!

You Can't Spell Sell-Out Without U!

Hey Gang!

From what I understand, we live in a world that is considered to be "capitalistic." At first I thought it just meant that the rules of grammar dictate that we capitalize names of businesses, but upon further research, "capitalism" is all about exchanging money for goods and services.  It is a fancy word for selling and we live in a nation that loves to sell.

In the training world, sales training is huge!  I have never attended any type of seminars that cover selling, but I am thinking about presenting my own symposium all about this subject that I am woefully ignorant of.

How Hard Can It Be?

From my earliest memory I can recall going to stores.  My parents would drive to the supermarket or mall, crack the car window and tell me to wait there while they shopped. (Some days they would shop for hours!)  They would come back happy and smiling. They loved some of their purchases so much that they would have me squash in the trunk so their new products could be safely buckled in a car seat. (They were such passionate consumers!)

It wasn't until my adult years, when I actually stepped foot in a store that I realized persuasion is involved in making purchases.  Some stores persuade consumers with signs and displays, where other stores have sales people following shoppers everywhere...like mattress clearinghouses.

More Bleeping Rules

If you have been following my blog, you know I always have to address those cumbersome rules! They seem to be everywhere...even in the art of persuading someone to spend money on an item that they don't need.

One of the many rules is to be charming.  A good sales person just needs a pretty smile and limited knowledge of the actual product.  If it's a big ticket item like a car that is being sold, a great salesperson should worry less about the details of the automobile and more about having a a laugh combined with a hearty, "Sure, I guess." as a response.

Also, don't let a potential buyer ask too many questions.  If a customer starts demanding a lot of in-depth answers about a product, a good salesperson should  have a brochure handy.  They can hand it to the consumer with that trade-mark smile and tell them, "Read it for yourself, I have other people who may actually buy from me."

Finally, don't be in a rush! The best thing a good salesperson has is time.  If someone wants to make an impulse buy based on emotions, a great sales technique is to use no pressure!  A future customer's goodnight sleep and healthy perspective is a salesperson's dream!

Well, hopeful Sales Men, Sales Women and Sales Associates...get out there and try your best.  Remember, your paycheck is NOT going to reflect whether or not someone bought an item from you. (Or will it? I never attended a sales seminar.)

Stay Awake Kids!

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer

Pointing With Power...The Video!!!!

Hey Gang,

My last blog was so popular (with me) that I thought it warranted its own video! (Also with me!)

Pointing With Power!

Hey Gang,

As a someday-corporate trainer, I will need to give future presentations....probably.  From what I understand there is a new and exciting innovation in giving speeches, it is an application called The PowerPoints!


What is this new technology?

Apparently this software is like a slide show that you can put together with a computer!  Not only can you place photos in it, you can also type words with it too!  Amazing.  When I first heard about this I thought it sounded too good to be true.  I said to myself, "We are finally living in the future."

How does it work?

There are several ways to access this magical computer picture-maker.  Some people pay for it. (It also comes with other software that you can use as a word processor and also make greeting cards with! The 21st Century...Am I right?) I decided not to choose the route of purchasing this computer program, instead I found an empty library computer that had it open already!  I jumped in that seat and started creating!

Are there any rules to follow?

Like anything fun and new, The PowerPoints comes with a certain etiquette that squashes its enjoyment.  In making my slides, I found the following dos and don's to PowerPointing:

• Use clip art SPARINGLY
• Do not use more than 6 words per slide
• Utilize the entire slide
• Use font sizes that are between 36 and 44

Do you HAVE to obey the rules?

It depends on the rules.  Traffic rules...sure.  State and Federal Rules...probably.  The PowerPoints rules...I say, take a chance and live a little.  Like my Nana Gainer used to tell me... "Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer, find somewhere else to be."

I decided to leave the comfort of those guidelines and make the following presentation using my own standards!

My First PowerPoints

Well Gang,  I hope these tips help with any presentations that you may have.  If you have questions, you can contact me at the library. I am still sitting in the same chair with the free PowerPoints!

Stay awake kids!

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer 

Leave Tony Alone!!!

Hey Gang,

It's been a dark week.  You may have heard that my Tony got in some trouble. Here is my heartfelt response!

My Yelp Review of the Atlantic Ocean

Hey Gang,

I found this nifty website that lets people give their opinions on a variety of  businesses that range from restaurants that I can't afford, to venues that I have never been to. It's fun to read these reviews.  I feel fancy and pretentious without having the bother of leaving my Gremlin.

Recently, I took a trip to the beach and had a less than stellar time. Admittedly, I am not the most well traveled person or even an unwell traveled person.  I haven't traveled a lot.  I kept hearing about this giant body of water that is only two hours from my house.  It has been my intent to go there for years, but one thing leads to another, and before you know it...I didn't go.  Finally I threw caution to the wind and decided make the trek to the sea!

Needless to say I had a less than stellar time, so I thought I would write a Yelp review about my experience.  I was not happy with my destination and wanted to express my displeasure. My review is about the Atlantic Ocean:

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer
Walmart Parking Lot, FL
0 Friends
1 Review
Not Allowed Anymore Photos

Upon arriving at the Atlantic Ocean I realized that there were no sidewalks leading out to the water. This beach had only sand! Even that wasn't consistent, in some places there were shells too. I complained to the lifeguard in charge. He seemed not to care and told me to stop rocking his tall chair. I noticed everyone else on the beach had either towels or chairs so I quickly took refuge with a family of four. They had towels, chairs and a giant umbrella. Unfortunately, that arrangement was short lived, I was told to leave by both parents and again by the life guard. (I guess he was FINALLY paying attention.) After trying to unsuccessfully befriend other beach goers, I decided to head into the water. It was very unstable. Every time I tried to walk into the ocean, a crest of water would crash against me. Several times I sternly yelled to the crowd,"Who is in charge? I keep getting hit with this out-of-control foam." It was then that I was told that these were waves and were natural to the surroundings. I had a lot to learn so I kept walking down the shoreline. Eventually, I became thirsty and drank a giant scoop of ocean water. It was full of salt! Was I ever upset! I turned right back around and complained again to the lifeguard again. Thankfully, he directed me to two bicycle cops that he had called. The police officers listened intently before asking me to leave. (So helpful.) Overall, I only gave it one star. The ocean was unsanitary and there was no air conditioning anywhere on the beach. I hope my review will open the public's eyes to the barbaric conditions on our shores.

Stay Awake Kids!

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer

Food Bike

Hey Gang,

Have you ever eaten at a food truck?  Well, what about a food bike?  Our latest podcast shows you the next big trend in food and transportation!

Domo Arigato Mr. Chatboto

Hey Gang,

I had a fun experience recently... I was in an intense text messaging conversation with a perspective new employer, things were going  great and I just knew this company was going to be a fantastic fit for the both of us.  As with most of my professional interactions, we engaged in a 45 minute back and forth of "You stop texting first. No, you stop texting first." To my surprise I later found out that I was communicating with a chatbot the whole time!

What is a Chatbot?

I know many of you are scratching your head right now and thinking, 'Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer, what in the world are you talking about?  You say the craziest things. I have never heard of this term.  What does this have to do with training? No one reads your blog!'

Well, let me explain. I learned that companies have automated programs that are designed to interact with job seekers by texting general information and setting up mundane appointments so the Human Resource people can get back do doing what they do best...gently telling me that I'm not going to get hired.

Why Use a Chatbot

Many companies feel that artificial intelligence can handle answering multiple questions and perform scheduling tasks easier than with a real person.  The chatty robots have endless patience and would never say, "Please stop asking me the same question...No you can't get paid with vacation time during your initial interview." (I didn't get that job.)

Are We Losing Our Humanity?

This is a deep question.  Are we, as a culture, becoming too dependent on technology?  Have we forsaken eye contact, handshakes and the power of a smile for a more streamlined workplace?  Are we someday going to become more computer than person?  I Googled all of these questions and it said we should be OK! Whew, what a relief.

Stay Awake Kids! (Or Reboot if you get too tired.)

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer

We Have a 2nd Studio!

Hey Gang,

We have a second studio for our podcast!  My podcast partner has a lot of opinions about it!

New Kids On The BlockChain

Hey Gang,

As a corporate trainer who always likes to be on top of the latest trends, I decided to tackle this crazy subject of cryptocurrency.  It's like regular currency, if regular currency was complicated, confusing and you needed a computer to access it.  Although understanding the basic principles was challenge, I didn't back down and plowed ahead. (JK, I have taken a lot of naps since I start researching this subject. )

So let's break it down in the simplest form.  People need stuff of value to buy stuff of necessity.  In other words, money buys food water and shelter.  But what is money, really?  It's something that we all have agreed has value.  Gold has been the diva of the currency world for the longest time, but its bright day in the sun may be soon over.  Now gold may be replaced with made-up bleeps and blips on the computer.

Cryptocurrency has been called digital cash. (I once tried to make digital friends, but they kept asking for favors, just like my flesh friends)  Someone can buy  crytocurrency and then turn around and sell it for traditional money.  Depending on the cryptocurrency that they bought and the market that they are selling it in, depends on whether they made a great investment or just bought a bag of magic beans.  (Depending on the market and the currency du'jour, someone could be smart one day and a sucker the next.) It's fun!  It's like taking everything you have always known about microeconomics and replacing it with a roulette wheel.

A fun invention did come from crytptocurrency and it is called a blockchain.  It prevents people from stealing your virtual money that may or may not have value.  A blockchain is like a ledger that is constantly updated.  The ledger isn't held in any one particular place.  It is everywhere on the internet, like cat videos.  No one (so far) can steal using blockchains, so that is great, unless there is an error then getting lost money would be impossible to get back.  (There is no customer service line for blockchains, it would just be a telephone representative saying that they cant help you...like actual customer service.)

For now, I will continue to focus on the values in my life... my blog, my Gremlin and my self-autographed poster of Tony Robbins. (I autographed it myself!)

Stay Awake Kids!

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer

The Meta Podcast

Hey Gang,

Today our podcast is about not having a podcast today....It's very meta!

I Got Framed

Hey Gang,

Yesterday, I went for a ride in my 1968 Gremlin.  I was zipping around like I always do when I am cruising. (I have ten good minutes of drive time before the engine over-heats and I have to pull over for  a half hour.) At one point I was at a stop sign and the truck in front of me had a license plate with a frame around it.  The frame read...Former Navy Seal.  I thought it was a deserving way to honor a noble occupation and it got me thinking...What frame should I get for my Gremlin that would reflect my life's work?

For those of you who have seen my Gremlin, (which would be no one) you may say, "Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer,  you already have so many bumper stickers on it and beanie babies in the windows, why on earth do you want even more flare for your car?"  Well, the answer is simple... I want to be as cool as the former Navy Seal driving a big truck that was built in the 21st Century.

I have searched different automotive store and websites, but I just haven't found any personalized frames that encapsulates my essence.  Here are some phrases that I have looked for to no avail:

Former Call Center Trainee
Former Retail Trainee
Formerly Filled Out An Application For The Outback But Never Got A Reply
Once Mowed Someone's Lawn For Money, But Broke Their Sprinkler System
Attempted To Get Unemployment Benefits But Was Told I Had To Have Held A Job First
Invested In Craig's List "Opportunities"
Tried To Borrow Rent Money
Recycled 7 Bags Of Cans To Buy One 6-Piece McNugget
Takes Coins Out Of Fountains

If anyone reading this can help,  please leave a reply!  If all else fails I may have to fashion my own with a clothes hanger, a glue gun and good old-fashion gumption. (And also something to write with.)

Stay Awake Kids,

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer

I Talked To Ted!

Hey Gang,

My talk with Ted is my latest podcast!

A Dry-Heave In Time

Hey Gang,


This past weekend I did something I hadn't done in a long time and went to the movies.  I saw that Oprah, who is kind of like a lady-Tony Robbins, was starring in a new film based on an old book.  Since I live on a tight budget, I decided to indulge, search for all the loose change that was in the floorboards of my Gremlin and go to an early matinee of A Wrinkle In Time.

The first thing I noticed is how much movie-going has changed.  After paying in sticky pennies and nickels, the lady behind the counter asked me to pick out my seat on a computer blue print of the theater.  I told her that I just wanted to "wing it" and take a look at the occupants in the cinema then sit next to someone who would hopefully become a life-long friend.  She told me that people were in line behind me and she picked a seat for me. (Such customer service!)

When I walked into the theater, it was like stepping into a rich person's living room. No longer were there rows and rows of short metal seats, now there were just a  few rows of fancy reclining chairs.  I went back to the lady at the counter and asked her if she had given me an upgrade. She told me that is how theaters are now and to leave her alone.

Once I settled into my Lazy-Boy-esque chair, the movie began... not the actual movie I paid to see, but 45 minutes of previewing upcoming blockbusters.  At one point, I forget which show I was there to watch.  Finally,  A Wrinkle In Time started.  The color was spectacular!  The imagery was beautiful! Oprah was at her Oprah-est!  Right when I thought the day couldn't get any better, I started to get the cold sweats, which turned into mild nausea, which turned into major nausea, which resulted in my taking off my jacket and retching into it.

As it turns out, the wonder and awe of the new cinematography makes me motion-sick.  I came to the realization that all these movies that cost hundreds of millions of dollars to produce will forever be lost on me and my weak inner-ear.  I stayed through the entire movie. I just closed my eyes and listened to words of the powerful lady that I used to watch on TV for free.

Despite, the queasiness I would give this movie a thumbs up or all the stars...whatever constitutes a good movie these days.  The message was a good one...use spray starch so time won't wrinkle, or maybe it was something different.  I can't remember, I felt terrible.

Stay Awake Kids,

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer

Goodbye Prince, Hello Ted!

Hey Gang,

We had to give up on The Prince, but we met Ted!

Thinking By Design

Hey Gang,

Design Thinking is all the rage in Corporate America.  From what I understand it helps businesses prosper,  makes customers happy  and obstacles are magically conquered with this technique.  The problem is, I don't know what that technique is.  

One article I read said that design thinking, "Design Thinking is a design methodology that provides a solution-based approach to solving problems. It’s extremely useful in tackling complex problems that are ill-defined or unknown, by understanding the human needs involved, by re-framing the problem in human-centric ways, by creating many ideas in brainstorming sessions, and by adopting a hands-on approach in prototyping and testing."  Hhhmmmm...as much as I understood that super-easy-to-follow blob of words, I decided to give it another Gainer-Go and look for a second definition.

My next web search found this explanation, "In its simplest form, design thinking is a process, applicable to all walks of life, of creating new and innovative ideas and solving problems; it is not limited to a specific industry or area of expertise. It can be as effective in technology or education as it may be in services or manufacturing."  Ok, finally, something I can grasp... it is applicable to all walks of life.  I have always hated the processes that only catered the working class...what about the fancy people?  They need a process too!

In my research, I realized that there are some exact steps in Design Thinking...kind of.  One sources stated that the steps are:

• Step 1 - Empathy. Any social endeavor begins with the human element. ...
• Step 2 - Define. ...
• Step 3 - Ideate. ...
• Step 4 - Prototype. ...
• Step 5 - Test.

Interesting, but as I continued my learning quest, I also found another website that stated the steps could are:

• Gather Inspiration
• Generate Ideas
• Make Ideas Tangible
• Share The Story

I guess my purpose of this blog-post is to explore the corporate buzzwords and HR-Trends. I may not understand them all.  I may read and research countless articles and still be confused, but at the end of day... I comprehended nothing. (And that's what it is all about!)

Stay Awake Kids,

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer 

The Gym Podcast!

Hey Gang,

My podcast this week is from a gymnasium! I think it counts as a workout if you watch.

Meeting of the Mine

Hey Gang,

I have realized that my last several blog posts have been less corporate trainer and more Cathy Gainer.  I want to fix that in this week's post.  If I ever do get a job with a corporation (Hopefully one that is a bit lenient with the background checks.) I imagine that I would have to attend and god-willing someday conduct meetings.  I am assuming that there is an art to hosting meetings, so the following are tips to make your company powwows great...probably.

Make Meeting A Surprise

We all have busy schedules and hectic lives, so who wouldn't want a pop-meeting? (It's like a pop-quiz but with a boardroom.)  Having unexpected and surprise meetings will help keep the workforce on its toes.  If the company's workflow is productive, predictable and profitable...shake things up and demand an impromptu huddle.

Listen To The Loud People

There are always going to be "those" people in a meeting...the "no-it-alls", the
"buttinskys" and the "jokesters."  They are the ones that interrupt and get the conversations off topic.  Be sure to embrace them!  Yes, the title of your conference may be "Ways to Be More Efficient" but if someone can bring up why Shannon always cooks fish in the break room microwave, then by all means...listen.  These people need the attention.

Throw That Agenda Out

Why have an organized list of issues and timelines, if you can just scat it out?  If you have assembled your coworkers in one space, then you should randomly jump from topic to topic.  If questions arise during  the meeting, address them head on rather than discussing anything at a later date. (Also, be aware of the people you have in the room.  If Shannon can be confronted about microwaving fish in front of her peers, than all the better.)

Have More Meeting Stemming From The Last Meeting

If you can run and effective and efficient meeting,  just think what you can do with another meeting...and another meeting and so on.  It's like a Russian nesting doll, you can't just conduct one get-together without making it multiply.  Remember, what you can accomplish in one gathering, you can also accomplish in four!

Hope this helps.  Stay awake, kids!

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer

We Got a Sponsor!

Hey Gang,

Our video this week is all about our new sponsor!!!

Prattle With a Purpose

Hey Gang,

Social media has become a part of our culture over the last decade.  It's fun to see people from my old  high school talk about their careers and post photos of their family while I am nestled in my Gremlin each night. Although, there is a lot of  time wasted on these apps, social media does have its negative side too.  Much like a family holiday table, some social media outlets can be a screaming match about politics, religion and sport team mascots. (Why are most team mascots only limited to mammals?  There are some fierce insects out there that can represent any school or civic association...don't get me started, that's  how I ruined the last Gainer Family Arbor Day celebration.)

NEW MEDIA PLATFORMS AND STDS!

I got to thinking, what if I could invent a social media platform that was only used for light and happy conversations?  I would call if the, Small Talker Database. Instead of people in your group being labeled as "friends" or "followers", they would just be fellow "STD Partners".  Once you sign up and log-in, you can either accept an STD or reach out to someone and ask them to accept your STD.  I think it would spread like wildfire!

SUGGESTED TOPICS ONLY

Small Talker Database wouldn't be open to just any type of conversation, the topics would be limited to only things that are non-controversial.  To keep everyone on point, moderators would be assigned, just like on Reddit.  The moderators would take their responsibilities seriously and be militant about their duties, just like on Reddit.  All topics would be limited to: weather, food, pets, babies, baby pets, gas prices and recent celebrity deaths.

SAY WHAT YOU MEME

Memes are those hilarious pictures with captions underneath them.  Some are of Kermit The Frog or Willy Wonka or other people who got famous for just being memes.  Sometimes memes are funny, some are poignant and some contain dangerously ignorant false information. I want to limit the memes for the STD partners as well.  Below would be some acceptable memes for my new network!

WEATHER

WORKPLACE HUMOR

The office can be a tricky place to mix with social media, but not if you're an STD partner!  The following are some good fun Safe-For-Work Memes!

If anyone out there is interested being an STD Partner with me and knows how to set up and operate a social platform, give me holler!

Stay Awake Kids,

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer

The Teaser Podcast!

Hey Gang,

I learned this fun thing called a "teaser"!  Watch this pod-cast lure you in with its tricky suggestiveness!

I've Got Sunshine In My Pocket and On My Blog!

Hey Gang,

I want to take this opportunity to thank the nifty folks at traveloptician.com who nominated me for the Sunshine Blogger Award.

Like all things in life, this honor comes with fun stipulations. The following are the
Sunshine Blogger Award Rules:

The Sunshine Blogger award is given by bloggers to bloggers who inspire positivity and creativity in the blogging community.

The rules are:

1. Thank blogger(s) who nominated you for a blog post and link back to their blog.
2. Answer the 11 questions the blogger asked you.
3. Nominate up to 11 new blogs to receive the award and write them 11 new questions.
4. List the rules and display the Sunshine Blogger Award logo in your post and/or on your blog

There are a following questions from traveloptician.com and I would love to answer them now! 

1. Are you a full – time blogger? I prefer to call myself a fun-time blogger.  Do I work 40 hours a week on it? No.  Do I get a salary from it? No. Do I have health insurance that includes death and disability coverage?  No. Do my parents mention this blog when they are out to dinner with friends and my name comes up? No. Do I have fun with blogging? You bet I do!
2. How you get into blogging? I have always been a fan of the great Tony Robbins.  I tried becoming a motivational speaker.  I rented out several arenas to put on my seminars.  No tickets were sold, so I figured the next best thing to would be to start a blog. 
3. Your favorite coulor? If you have seen any of my podcasts, you would see that I wear a signature canary yellow blazer.  I do love yellow, but on occasion I also enjoy saffron, mustard and gold.
4. What is your biggest dream? It is usually the one where I forget that I have a test and when I show up to class I am not wearing a shirt.  After a while people start chasing me, then I fall off of a building and then I wake up.  Night terrors, am I right?
5. How you pick up what you’re going to write next about?  I usually think about what is going on in the world both economically and politically, wonder how it affects me and society in general.  Or sometimes I just write about what I ate for breakfast
6. If you could appear in any magazine for your blog, which one would it be? I like the magazines by the check-out stand.  I would like to be featured feuding with the Kardashians and having my recent weight loss be widely speculated about.
7. What inspired you to start your blog?  I heard it was free and you couldn't get fired from it.
8. What is a success for you? I don't measure success in money, or job security or even happiness.  I measure it using the metric system, it is so much easier to deal in 10s, 100s and 1000s.
9. What would you do if you didn’t blog? I would probably go back to writing in my online journal. 
10. What do you do when you need to clear your mind?  I find a comfortable space, close my eyes and picture my bank account...vast and empty.
11. Who has the biggest influence on you? One word...Anthony Robbins

My Nominees: 

Adrian Long from https://angjellockheart.blogspot.com

Paul De Lancey from https://pauldelancey.com

Donna Cavanaugh from https://humoroutcasts.com/

Sarah Dew from https://asimpleandcontentedlife.com

Grace Swain from http://www.beuniful.com

Heidi Clements from https://welcometoheidi.wordpress.com

Lydia Samson from https://allmychaosbylydia.wordpress.com

Mama from http://www.mamawritesreviews.com

Cristy from http://happyfamilyblog.com/

The Twins from https://linktr.ee/twinspirationalparties

Ariana Huffington from https://www.huffingtonpost.com/


My 11 Questions are:

1. Do you think I'm pretty?

2. What is your proudest blog moment?

3. If you could be any forest creature, which one would it be and why?

4. What are some ways that you market your blog?

5. Oprah or Gail?

6. Do you feel like the blog industry is over-saturated, if so, what can be done to streamline the way blogs are posted?

7. If you could bare-knuckle punch one person, without fear of repercussion, who would it be?

8. What is the best way to get sponsors for your blog?

9. Chewbaka or Warf?

10. Do you feel that living in a time of blogging and You-Tubing helps ambitious people jump the industry and produce quality entertainment and knowledge?

11.  Has the world had enough of pumpkin spiced foods or will there be a resurgence? 

Congrats to all the nominees this far! To my nominees, don’t forget to include a logo on your own. You can find one or make your own like I did. Here are some logos to choose from.

I hope you enjoyed this short nomination post! Stay Awake Kids!

Cathy Gainer Corporate Trainer